Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

This recipe was born out of necessity as much as creativity. Years ago, I was rummaging through the pantry on a lazy Sunday afternoon, looking for something to craft into a meal substantial enough to satisfy my hungry brood. I stumbled across some chicken broth and crushed tomatoes—basic staples, but a good start—and before I knew it, our beloved Chicken Parmesan Soup was bubbling away in the crock pot. It was an instant hit. The kids loved it because of its cheesy goodness, while my husband appreciated the hearty, flavorful chunks of chicken.

Over the years, the recipe has evolved and become a staple in our family traditions. Whether it’s served as the main dish at a family gathering or as a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup never fails to deliver comfort straight from the pot to your bowl. It’s a breeze to throw everything into the crock pot and let it work its slow-cooking magic while you take care of the day’s other tasks. It’s cooking made simple, yet oh so rewarding.

If you’re on the hunt for that one recipe that combines ease, flavor, and a nostalgic taste of home, look no further. So, dust off your crock pot, grab a ladle, and let’s whip up a pot of my family’s cherished Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup. You won’t be disappointed; in fact, I wager it’ll soon become a regular on your dinner table as well!

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

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Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 3 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz uncooked rotini pasta
• 1 cup freshly shaved parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions:

1. Begin by adding the chicken breasts, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth into your crock pot. Stir to combine.
2. Place the cover on the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
3. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot once cooking time is up. Mix in the parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and uncooked rotini pasta. Cover again and continue cooking on low for 30 minutes or high for another 15 minutes until the pasta reaches al dente.
4. While waiting for the pasta to cook, heat the butter in a small saucepan. Add the bread crumbs, stirring constantly to achieve a golden brown finish.
5. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a sprinkling of shredded mozzarella and the freshly toasted bread crumbs. Serve hot and enjoy this heartwarming delight!

Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste

If you’re out of Italian seasoning, don’t fret! A blend of dried oregano and basil works just as well. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk. Prefer gluten-free? Simply swap out the rotini pasta for a gluten-free alternative, ensuring everyone’s dietary needs are met without compromising flavor.

Best Ways to Store Leftover Soup

This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Want to stash some away for a rainy day? Freeze portions in individual containers, thawing them overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove. Simply stir in a little extra broth if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

Perfect Pairings for Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Parmesan Soup

Zesty garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad complements this soup perfectly, offering a touch of freshness to the comforting, creamy dish. Enjoy it with a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling lemonade to bring out the nuanced flavors of the soup. These pairings turn your soup into a complete meal, both satisfying and delightful.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan Soup

For a richer texture, sear the chicken briefly before setting it into the crock pot. This adds depth to the flavor profile. Always use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best taste, and don’t skimp on the toasty bread crumbs—they provide a satisfying crunch! Adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding more herbs or spices if desired.

Seasonal Twists for Soup Lovers

In the spring, sprinkle some fresh basil or chopped asparagus right before serving. For a summer variation, incorporate corn kernels or zucchini. Come autumn, add some roasted pumpkin or butternut squash for a seasonal twist. In winter, throw in a handful of kale or spinach at the end to add a boost of nutrition and flavor.

FAQs:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute. They offer a bit more richness because they contain higher fat content, and they also tend to stay juicier in the slow cooking process. If opting for thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they often cook quicker than breasts.

Is it possible to make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make this soup in advance. Complete steps one and two, then store the cooked base in the fridge. When ready to serve, heat the soup while adding the pasta, cream, and cheeses. Keep in mind, however, that pasta tends to absorb liquid over time, so you might want to add extra chicken broth when reheating.

What’s the secret to perfectly shredding chicken?

The key to perfectly shredded chicken is to do it while it’s still warm. Use two forks to pull the meat apart gently. If you own a hand mixer or stand mixer, a quick whirl also breaks the chicken apart into beautifully even shreds with minimum effort—a helpful trick when handling larger batches!

How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?

To avoid overly soft pasta, add it towards the end of the cooking process. By cooking the pasta for just the last 30 minutes on low or 15 minutes on high, you ensure it cooks just to al dente perfection. This step maintains its texture against the creamy backdrop of the soup.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Definitely! You can easily double this recipe to accommodate a larger group or for batch cooking purposes. Just ensure your crock pot can handle the additional volume, which often means using a larger 8-quart model. Doubling gives you plenty to serve and some to freeze for future meals.

Is there a way to make this dish more spicy?

To kick up the heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili when you first combine the ingredients in your crock pot. Alternatively, a few splashes of hot sauce to taste right before serving will provide a zesty punch without overpowering the traditional flavors of the chicken parmesan soup.